Things To Do
in Settara
Settara is a small, rural town in northeastern Algeria set amid the rolling foothills of the Tell Atlas near the Mediterranean coast. The town serves as a quiet agricultural and market center for surrounding olive groves, small farms and forested hills. Visitors will find an authentic Algerian provincial atmosphere — low-key cafés, lively weekly markets and scenic drives to nearby coastal cliffs.
Settara is a base for simple nature trips and local cultural encounters rather than big-city services or tourist infrastructure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure with a hike through the lush landscapes surrounding Settara, where the sounds of nature awaken with the dawn. Stop at a scenic viewpoint to admire the early light casting shadows over the chiseled hills. As you wander, you may encounter local flora and fauna, enriching your connection to this beautiful region.
After a relishing lunch of traditional Algerian couscous at a local café, delve into the vibrant culture of Settara by visiting the local artisan shops that showcase handmade crafts. Engage with the friendly locals and perhaps participate in a workshop to create your own souvenir. As the sun reaches its zenith, lay back at a shaded area in town, sipping on mint tea while enjoying the lively atmosphere around you.
As dusk falls, partake in a culinary experience at a restaurant known for its Berber dishes, where spices and flavors come to life in the dim candlelight. Stroll through the town's main square, where locals gather, and experience the vibrant energy as traditional music fills the air. End the evening by watching the stars emerge over the calming hills, reflecting on a day richly filled with exploration.
Embark on a journey through Settara’s history by visiting ancient ruins that tell tales of the past. The early hours provide a serene atmosphere to explore these sites before the crowds arrive. Listen to the stories of guides who share insights into the significance of each location.
After exploring, enjoy a delightful lunch at a nearby café that serves local delicacies, allowing you to refuel for the next leg of your tour. Post-lunch, visit a nearby museum to learn more about the region's history and cultural evolution. Take your time absorbing the historical richness, as each artifact holds the essence of Algerian heritage.
As night approaches, bring your day to a close with an outdoor dining experience at a restaurant that offers a picturesque view of the ruins you visited earlier. Share stories and laughter with fellow travelers, enjoying authentic dishes as the ambience comes alive under twinkling lights. Capture the moment with a few photographs that blend history and evening charm.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a café | $0.80-2 |
| 🥐Street snack or pastry | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride (local) | $1.50-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $30-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Algerian atmosphere and friendly local interactions
- Close access to Mediterranean coastline and quiet natural scenery
- Low cost compared with tourist hubs
- Good for photography, hiking and cultural immersion
- Limited tourist infrastructure and few English speakers
- Restricted nightlife and few entertainment options
- Public transport is limited; a car or arranging transfers is often necessary
- Medical facilities in town are basic; serious care requires travel to larger cities
- "Salam / السلام" - Hello / Peace
- "Shukran / شكرا" - Thank you
- "Afak / عفاك" - Please (Algerian dialect)
- "Besh-hal? / بقداه؟" - How much?
- "Win…? / وين…؟" - Where is…?
- "Naam / نعم — La / لا" - Yes — No
- "Merci" - Thank you (French commonly understood)
- "Smahli / سمحلي" - Excuse me / Sorry (Algerian dialect)
Places to Visit in Settara
Visit one of these nice places.
Lively market scenes, colorful produce stalls, and everyday life provide candid street photography opportunities in the morning.
Terraced groves and rolling hills offer scenic landscapes, especially at golden hour when light softens on the trees.
Short drives to the Mediterranean shoreline reveal dramatic cliffs, rocky beaches and sunset vistas perfect for wide-angle shots.
Narrow lanes, textured walls and domestic life in neighboring villages make for intimate cultural portraits—always ask permission before photographing people.
Food in Settara
Settara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Staple dish of steamed semolina served with stewed vegetables and meat (lamb or chicken); widely available at family restaurants and market lunches.
Must-Try!
A warming tomato-and-spice-based soup often served as a starter or light meal, especially during cooler months and Ramadan.
Fresh catches from the Mediterranean — grilled fish or calamari — commonly served in coastal eateries a short drive from Settara.
Savory stuffed flatbreads or layered pancakes found at street stalls and bakeries; good for breakfast or a snack on the go.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where farmers sell olives, cheeses, fresh bread, vegetables and homemade preserves; try fresh olives, local pastries and small sandwiches from vendors.
Small bakeries and street vendors sell mhadjeb, flatbreads, fried snacks and strong coffee — ideal for quick, affordable tastings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people politely with 'Salam' or a handshake (among same-gender acquaintances). Use respectful language and address elders formally. Men and women may have different greeting customs; follow the lead of locals.
Dress modestly in town and especially when visiting religious sites—covering shoulders and knees is advisable for both men and women to show respect.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women and elders. Many locals are friendly but cautious about being photographed.
During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public daylight hours out of respect. Many businesses may have reduced hours; evenings are livelier after sunset.
Safety
Tipping in Settara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, leaving 5–10% for good service is common; round up taxi fares or leave small change for drivers and helpers. For guides, a modest tip acknowledges good service.
The local currency is the Algerian dinar (DZD). Cash is king in small towns like Settara; credit and debit cards are less commonly accepted outside larger towns and hotels.
ATMs and currency exchange services are more likely in larger nearby towns (e.g., Jijel). Carry enough cash for rural excursions and check ATM availability before you travel.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry inland with higher humidity closer to the coast; temperatures can be high in July–August. Coastal breezes make beach excursions pleasant; carry sun protection, water and light clothing.
Mild and comfortable temperatures with occasional rain later in the season; foliage in the hills and olive harvest activities make autumn a pleasant time to visit.
Mild to cool with most of the annual rainfall occurring November–March; occasional chilly nights in the hills. Some rural tracks may be muddy—bring waterproof shoes.
One of the nicest seasons with wildflowers, green hills and comfortable temperatures—ideal for hiking and outdoor photography.
Settara at Night
Hiking in Settara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Networks of rural tracks and forest paths in the foothills offer short to moderate hikes with olive groves, wildflowers in spring, and views toward the sea.
Walks along nearby Mediterranean cliffs and coves provide dramatic scenery and opportunities for sunrise or sunset photography.
Short walking routes connecting Settara with neighboring villages let hikers experience rural life, local agriculture and small-scale landscapes at an easy pace.
Airports
How to reach Settara by plane.
The closest regional airport serving Jijel and surroundings; from the airport you can reach Settara by road via taxis or rented car—travel time varies depending on exact location and road conditions.
Larger regional airport with more frequent domestic connections; typically a longer drive to Settara but useful for flights from Algiers or other Algerian cities, followed by bus or taxi connections.
Another regional airport serving northeastern Algeria; useful as an alternative if coordinating regional travel, with onward ground transportation to reach Settara.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents work in farming, olive cultivation and small-scale livestock; communities are family-oriented and maintain traditional lifestyles.
Like much of Algeria, there is a significant youth demographic; younger residents often travel to larger towns for education or work.
The region reflects a mix of Arabized and Amazigh (Berber) cultural influences in language, customs and place names.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Algeria, widely played and followed in Settara and nearby towns with local matches and youth teams.
Handball is commonly played in schools and clubs in the region and enjoys local interest.
Fishing from the shore and small boats is a common pastime in coastal communities near Settara; many locals fish for leisure and subsistence.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Settara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but may be limited in small towns. Look for couscous with vegetables, salads, soups (chorba without meat) and breads; ask for vegetable-only preparations and use phrases in French or Arabic to clarify.
More challenging but possible: focus on vegetable stews, lentil dishes and salads; communicate dietary needs clearly and avoid dishes prepared with butter or animal stock.
Most meat sold and served locally follows halal practice; pork is uncommon and alcoholic drinks are rarely served in small towns.
Wheat-based breads and couscous are common; ask ahead and favor grilled meats, salads and vegetable stews if avoiding gluten.